NYAGV Urges Confirmation of Todd Jones as ATF Head

New Yorkers Against Gun Violence and other state gun violence prevention groups has urged the Senate to quickly confirm Todd Jones as permanent director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Jones currently serves as acting director of the ATF, which has been without a permanent director for seven years.

President Obama has nominated Todd Jones as permanent director of the ATF.

Before 2006, the director of the bureau was appointed by the president. But under pressure from the gun lobby, Congress voted to change the law to require Senate confirmation. Since then, the Senate has failed to confirm anyone nominated for the position by either President Bush or President Obama.

“This is a major law enforcement agency, charged with regulating the firearms industry. Without a permanent leader their ability to stop gun trafficking by corrupt gun dealers is severely hampered,” said Barbara Holt, chair of States United to Prevent Gun Violence (SUPGV) and founding member of NYAGV. NYAGV is a member of SUPGV.